Sometimes it is obvious that complications are going to arise. Your property may be located in a development permit area and obtaining a development permit (a separate process) is a prerequisite to obtaining a building permit. There may be other problems, however, which may not always be apparent when you first submit your application. When your application is received, the regional district will review any information on file that is relevant to your property. A title search and a site inspection will also be carried out. Staff will then be able to advise you what other information, if any, will be required to complete your application. The new information submitted may necessitate revision of some of the documentation you initially provided.

Problems that have to be resolved might include the following.

• A building scheme registered on the title of your property may require the approval of your proposed design by a third party - you may have to get that approval.

• A covenant registered on the title may stipulate certain construction requirements or even restrict a use - you may have to amend your proposal.

• Information on file or a site inspection may identify a natural hazard which could adversely affect your property - you may have to provide a report from a suitably qualified engineer which certifies that the land is safe for the use intended.

• This report may specify conditions for the safe use of the property - if so, the Local Government Act may require you to register a covenant on the title of the land.

• The proposed site of your building may conflict with zoning setback requirements - you may have to amend your proposal or apply for a development variance permit.

• The proposed site of your building may conflict with a registered easement or right-of-way – you may have to amend your proposal.

• Your property may be located within a designated floodplain—your proposal may have to be referred to a provincial authority for determination of a flood construction elevation.

Once your application is completed, the building inspector will carry out a detailed plan check. This might reveal building code deficiencies or a conflict with any of the development restrictions referred to above. It can be frustrating to discover these conflicts when you think you are about to start construction. You are encouraged, therefore, to learn as much about your property and any potential development restrictions well in advance of submitting your building permit application. Regional district staff are always willing to help in this regard.